ICD-10 Code L02.51 – Cutaneous abscess of hand (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L02.51 – Cutaneous abscess of hand
What it is
L02.51 identifies a localized skin abscess on the hand. It means a pocket of pus forms in the skin or superficial tissue, usually from infection.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a tender, swollen, red, and warm hand lesion, sometimes with fluctuance or drainage. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a cutaneous abscess specifically on the hand. It fits localized superficial infection, not a deeper hand infection or joint involvement. If laterality or a more specific site is documented, capture it exactly as recorded.
Do not use for
Do not use L02.51 for cellulitis without abscess, deep space hand infection, or abscesses in another body site. Check documentation if the record does not clearly identify a cutaneous hand abscess.
Coding tip
Code the exact anatomic site and verify whether the abscess is cutaneous versus deeper tissue.